File formats
DXF
Drawing Exchange Format
Definition
DXF is Autodesk's documented format for exchanging AutoCAD drawing data, most often 2D geometry. It is the usual handoff for laser cutting, waterjet, and sheet metal flat patterns.
Also known as: Drawing Exchange Format, Drawing Interchange Format, .dxf
Updated
Common uses#
Autodesk publishes the format in its DXF Reference. Mainstream CAD programs read and write it: Onshape drawings, for example, are based on the DWG and DXF formats. OpenSCAD uses DXF for 2D outlines that it extrudes into solids.
For fabrication, a DXF of a flat pattern or profile goes straight to a laser or waterjet. Check that the units, scale, and closed contours are right before sending it, because many cutting problems start with an open polyline or a file drawn at the wrong scale.
Sources
Related terms
Flat pattern
A flat pattern is the unfolded 2D shape of a sheet metal part, calculated from its bends, radii, and K-factor or bend table. It is what gets cut from the sheet before the part is formed.
Drawing
An engineering drawing is a 2D document generated from a 3D model, with views, dimensions, tolerances, and notes. Many shops still quote and inspect from drawings even when they also receive a STEP file.
OpenSCAD
OpenSCAD is free, open-source CAD software where models are written as code using constructive solid geometry and extrusion of 2D outlines. Because the whole model is text, it is one of the easiest CAD targets for LLMs to generate and edit.